Firefighters Research Articles

MONITORING SISTEM PROTEKSI KEBAKARAN AKTIF PADA PLTU ANGGREK 2 X 25 MW

The Anggrek Unit Steam Power Plant (PLTU) is a power generation facility whose construction began in 2007 and began operating in 2019 with a capacity of 2 x 25 MW. Since its inauguration, PLTU Anggrek has become one of the main sources of electricity distribution in Gorontalo Province, so the frequency of power outages in the area has now decreased significantly. The water supply system for fire fighting uses BSP pipes. In this research, the aim is to determine the active fire protection system. This research was carried out with a qualitative descriptive design with data collection: observation and interviews. The assessment of the results of existing suitability will be assessed using descriptive percentage calculations. The research results show that of the 7 variables discussed, the average value for the level of fulfillment is 98.57%. Based on the level of fire audit assessment that meets the requirements of Indonesian national standards and international standards, the results are in the Good criteria or have met the requirements.

Simulation Design and Research of Flame Generation in Virtual Fire Scene Based on Unity3D

Since the 21st century, with the continuous development and progress of science and technology, the possibility of fire danger is also rising, the requirements of public fire safety management have also been improved accordingly, and the problems in its fire safety management work make it difficult to meet the management requirements. The selection of firefighters has also become the top priority of management, good psychological quality of firefighters can keep calm in the face of fire explosions and various emergencies, and can make the most correct choice to complete the rescue and fire fighting work. In this paper, a building in a certain location is selected as the location to simulate the scene of fire. Through human-computer interaction to judge the psychological quality of firefighters. First use major modeling software such as 3ds Max, Adobe Fusecc, or find material in the Unity3D store to create models of fire scenes and people and import them into Unity3D. Using Unity3D's own particle system component to build flame models, adding collision body components to all models to detect their collision detection mechanism and the mechanism of flame spreading combustion. A Scenario-based Communication Ability Evaluation System Based on Traditional Cognitive Behavior Measurement and Advanced Eye Movement, EEG and NIR Acquisition Techniques.

ANALISIS INOVASI ROTI 7 LAPIS (RESPONSE TIME 7 MENIT LAYANAN PEMADAMAN KEBAKARAN GRATIS) DI KOTA SURABAYA DALAM PERSPEKTIF NEW PUBLIC SERVICE

The "Roti 7 Lapis" innovation by Surabaya Fire and Rescue Department (DPKP) aims to accelerate fire fighting response with a target time of 7 minutes, at no cost, to reduce material losses and casualties. The program not only focuses on efficiency, but also builds community involvement in fire prevention, in line with New Public Service (NPS) principles that emphasize inclusivity, equity, and collaboration. "Roti 7 Lapis" manages fire risk holistically through cross-sector collaboration and the latest technology. Its implementation is supported by strict regulations and a transparent reporting system that ensures accountability and service effectiveness. Development recommendations include increasing community participation, strengthening transparency, and further integrating technological innovations. In the context of growing urbanization, these measures aim to improve the sustainability and effectiveness of the program in maintaining the safety and well-being of Surabaya's citizens.

СИСТЕМА КАЧЕСТВА ОБУЧЕНИЯ В КАДЕТСКИХ КЛАССАХ МЧС РОССИИ И ПОЖАРНО-СПАСАТЕЛЬНЫХ КОЛЛЕДЖАХ

The results of research on the creation of an internal system for assessing the quality of education teaching children in schools with cadet classes of EMERCOM of Russia and fire and rescue colleges the basics of fire safety are presented. The requirements for the qualifications of a teacher-educator for high-quality classes with children on combustion, the danger of uncontrolled combustion – fire and compliance with fire safety requirements are presented. The methodological features of teaching children of different age groups the basics of fire prevention, fire fighting equipment and tactics are shown. Methods for checking the quality of student learning are proposed.

Coupled Effects of High Temperatures and Droughts on Forest Fires in Northeast China

High temperatures and droughts are two natural disasters that cause forest fires. During climate change, the frequent occurrence of high temperatures, droughts, and their coupled effects significantly increase the forest fire risk. To reveal the seasonal and spatial differences in the coupled effects of high temperatures and droughts on forest fires, this study used the Copula method and proposed the compound extremely high-temperature and drought event index (CTDI). The results indicated that the study area was subject to frequent forest fires in spring (71.56%), and the burned areas were mainly located in forests (40.83%) and the transition zone between farmland and forests (36.91%). The probability of forest fires in summer increased with high temperatures and drought intensity, with high temperatures playing a dominant role. The highest forest fire hazard occurred in summer (>0.98). The probability of a forest fire occurring under extreme meteorological conditions in summer and fall was more than twice as high as that in the same zone under non-extreme conditions. Droughts play a significant role in the occurrence and spread of forest fires during fall. These results can provide decision-making support for forest fire warnings and fire fighting in the Northeast China forest zone.

Application and Research of Intelligent Multi-source Information Fusion Technology in Firefighting Equipment

As modern firefighting environments become increasingly complex, traditional firefighter equipment and operational methods are no longer adequate to address the high-risk challenges of fire rescue operations. Fire scenes are characterized by complex and hazardous environmental factors, with firefighters facing multiple threats such as extreme temperatures, dense smoke, and toxic gases. Therefore, ensuring the safety and efficiency of firefighters is of paramount importance. This study integrates multiple sensor technologies to enable real-time monitoring of firefighters' physiological status, posture changes, and fire scene conditions. The system incorporates ErgoLAB wireless ECG and PPG sensors, the BWT61CL posture sensor, and the MAG14mini infrared camera, which are capable of simultaneously capturing key physiological data and heat distribution in the fire scene. To ensure data accuracy and real-time performance, the study employs efficient signal preprocessing techniques, including noise reduction, baseline correction, and time synchronization. In addition, wireless transmission technology and multimodal data fusion algorithms are utilized to comprehensively analyze the firefighters' status and fire scene conditions. This approach significantly enhances the precision of firefighter safety monitoring and operational efficiency, demonstrating substantial innovation and practical value.

The polk county screening tool screening for detecting subarachnoid hemorrhage

IntroductionThe subarachnoid space in the brain contains crucial blood vessels and cerebrospinal fluid. Aneurysms in these vessels can lead to subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a serious stroke subtype with high morbidity and mortality rates. SAH treatment includes procedures like coiling and clipping, but these are available only at comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs), necessitating urgent diagnosis and transfer to specialized facilities.MethodsThis IRB-approved study was conducted by Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) in Florida. PCFR, serving an 850,000-person population, implemented a three-step SAH protocol. The protocol uses both Ottawa SAH criteria and recurring symptoms, such as new-onset seizures and high systolic blood pressure, that were identified by EMS. Acute management included administering labetalol, levetiracetam, and ondansetron.ResultsOf 2175 stroke patients, 80 screened positive for SAH and were eligible for transfer. Patients had a median age of 66, and 33% had an initial systolic BP over 220 mmHg. The interfacility transfer rate dropped from 12.9 to 3.6% after implementing the protocol.ConclusionThe PCFR protocol’s effectiveness suggests its potential for nationwide implementation. Early SAH recognition and prompt transfer to CSCs reduce complications and improve outcomes. Accurate field diagnosis by EMTs can prevent unnecessary transfers and enhance patient care. Future improvements may include portable diagnostic tools and enhanced EMT training to further improve SAH patients’ pre-hospital care.

Analysis of forest fire dangers of the Bryansk region in the zones of radioactive contamination and beyond

The purpose of the study is to analyze the forest fire dangers of the Bryansk region forests, taking into account their radioactive contamination and potential risks for forestry workers involved in forest fires extinguishing. Significant areas of radioactive contamination of forests with a predominance of sites belonging to the classes of high and very high natural fire danger, restrictions on economic activity and a long fire-hazardous period contribute to the occurrence of radioactive forest fires. The analysis of the combined data on forest fires and radioactive contamination of forest areas showed that most forest fires occur outside the zones of radioactive contamination and are not radioactive. The largest number of fires occurs at the beginning of the fire season. Radioactive forest fires in most cases arise from the burning of dry grassy vegetation, as a result of the transition from lands of other categories and through the fault of the population. The average effective dose of additional radiation per a workday can be estimated at 1.96 μSv, and the maximum at ~ 15.4 μSv. Most fires are extinguished in the early stages and do not have time to cover large areas. It indicates the effective work of the forest fire service

Perceptions Experiences and Challenges of Physical Activity among Firefighters with Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services

Background The development of atherosclerosis in firefighters is affected by various cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking, poor dietary choices, and lack of physical activity. Together, these elements lead to obesity, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, and increased blood sugar levels. Continuous exposure to these risks raises the chances of worsening atherosclerosis, which can impede blood circulation to essential organs like the heart and brain. As a result, sudden cardiac death is the leading cause of fatalities while on duty in the fire service. Aim This study aimed to explore and describe the perceptions, experiences, and challenges associated with physical activity among firefighters with risk factors for coronary heart disease in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services. Methods A purposive sample of nine full-time active career firefighters from the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, representing three different ranks, was employed, using a descriptive qualitative study design. The semi-structured interview responses were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The participants were free to leave the study at any time and without penalty, and their rights to confidentiality were protected. The thematic analysis was then used to examine the transcripts. Results The results revealed that firefighters were not physically active enough to meet the suggested minimum levels of physical activity and were physically inactive. Sedentary lifestyles have numerous detrimental effects on the human body, such as elevated rates of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease mortality, and all-cause death. Therefore, it is essential to reduce sedentary behavior and increase physical exercise to improve the health and well-being of firefighters. Conclusion Policy strategies should be designed to introduce physical activities at low-moderate intensity levels and accommodate firefighters with coronary heart disease risk factors. Implementing team-based physical activity interventions has demonstrated positive impacts on individual behavior changes within the fire service.

Effect of Motivation on Employee Performance: A Case of Tanzania Fire and Rescue Force, Kigoma Region

This study sought to determine the effect of motivation on employee performance at the Tanzania Fire Rescue Force. The study was specifically designed to identify the effects of salary, fringe benefits, recognition, training & development on the employees' performance using a case of the Tanzania fire rescue force in Kigoma Region. The study employed a quantitative approach and cross-sectional research design. 50 structured questionnaires were distributed to 50 employees and the collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, principal component factors, correlation and simple linear regression analysis. The findings indicated the moderate effect of salary, Recognition & Appreciation on employee performance. The findings also revealed that personal commitments and job satisfaction are two fringe benefit factors influencing employee performance. Moreover, it was reported that Training & Development have contributed to 63% of the variation in employees' performance among workers. Additionally, the overall finding indicated that salary, fringe benefits, training, development, Recognition & Appreciation are seen as job-motivating factors that significantly impact employee performance. The study recommended that by nurturing a motivational work environment and supporting skill development and feedback mechanisms, the organization can further enhance employee performance and contribute to its overall success.

The problem of practical training of crew members of sea vessels for emergency situations: fire fighting

New methods of training crew members for fight a fire are being considered, based on the experience of chief officers and masters who have an experience of fire on a ship in reality. The collected analysis of incidents showed that today's methods of fire fighting characterized by scheduled duties between the crew are not effective, and are not implemented in an emergency situation. The proposed methods of practical training are aimed at reducing panic, rational use of crew forces and knowledge of special ship technical means of fire fighting.

Thermally robust hierarchical nanofiber triboelectric yarns for efficient energy harvesting in firefighting E-textiles

Textile-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) face challenges in achieving high performance and fulfilling functional requirement for special applications. This paper presents the development of a high-performance, thermally robust hierarchical polyimide (PI) nanofiber triboelectric yarns with a charge-trapping interlayer for application in firefighting E-textiles. The hierarchical nanofiber yarns, comprising a stainless-steel core electrode, a PI/MXene interlayer and PI outer tribo-layer, exhibit enhanced triboelectric performance due to the charge-trapping capabilities of MXene, which preventing the recombination of triboelectric and induced charges. When the MXene content in the charge-trapping interlayer reached 1 wt%, the corresponding TENG achieved its optimal output performance, with an output voltage of 153 V and a current of 13.13 μA and a peak power density of 0.84 W/m2 under optimal conditions. It also demonstrates exceptional thermal stability, maintaining stable output at temperatures up to 400 °C. The integration of the TENG into E-textiles enables real-time monitoring of firefighters’ physical activities and location tracking, significantly enhancing their safety and operational efficiency in fire scenarios. Additionally, the TENG powers electroluminescent yarns, improving visibility in dense smoke and dust environments. This research opens new avenues for the application of smart wearable systems in high-temperature environments, providing effective strategies for ensuring the safety of firefighters in fire rescue operations.

A methodology for assessing multiple hazards applied to Sweden

Despite extensive efforts through various international initiatives to reduce global warming, it has been determined that human induced climate change is here, that the present scale of disruption of the climate is unprecedented and will continue. Increasing weather volatility can be expected, which will most likely increase exposure to weather related hazards, e.g. wildfires, flooding. The aim of this paper is to present an index-based multi-hazard risk assessment method to assess wildfires and flooding hazard for two municipalities within Sweden. The method is designed to be used by the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) for planning purposes and can be modified to take the local FRS’s capabilities and local conditions into account, thereby improving hazard preparedness at a local level. The analysis presented indicates that, while the frequency of multi-hazard overlap from wildfires and flooding is greatest in more northern parts of Sweden, the method provides important information even when applied to areas with limited overlap. A variation of the hazard assessment using a box kernel sliding window was studied to investigate the sensitivity of the model for rapid variations of an individual hazard level. Given that resource needs will typically spread over several days for large scale natural hazards, the box kernel approach is valuable in helping to identify a span of days when resources associated with incident response might be needed. In the future, the model should be expanded to include additional single hazards, the application to additional municipalities and extension to FRS planning exercises for natural hazards.

Injury Surveillance In Career Firefighters: A Retrospective Analysis Of Musculoskeletal Injury And Related Workers’ Compensation Costs

Injury Surveillance In Career Firefighters: A Retrospective Analysis Of Musculoskeletal Injury And Related Workers’ Compensation Costs

Differences In Career Firefighter Muscle Strength Outcomes Based On Self-reported Muscle Strengthening Behaviors

Differences In Career Firefighter Muscle Strength Outcomes Based On Self-reported Muscle Strengthening Behaviors

Projecting Large Fires in the Western US With an Interpretable and Accurate Hybrid Machine Learning Method

AbstractMore frequent and widespread large fires are occurring in the western United States (US), yet reliable methods for predicting these fires, particularly with extended lead times and a high spatial resolution, remain challenging. In this study, we proposed an interpretable and accurate hybrid machine learning (ML) model, that explicitly represented the controls of fuel flammability, fuel availability, and human suppression effects on fires. The model demonstrated notable accuracy with a F1‐score of 0.846 ± 0.012, surpassing process‐driven fire danger indices and four commonly used ML models by up to 40% and 9%, respectively. More importantly, the ML model showed remarkably higher interpretability relative to other ML models. Specifically, by demystifying the “black box” of each ML model using the explainable AI techniques, we identified substantial structural differences across ML fire models, even among those with similar accuracy. The relationships between fires and their drivers, identified by our model, were aligned closer with established fire physical principles. The ML structural discrepancy led to diverse fire predictions and our model predictions exhibited greater consistency with actual fire occurrence. With the highly interpretable and accurate model, we revealed the strong compound effects from multiple climate variables related to evaporative demand, energy release component, temperature, and wind speed, on the dynamics of large fires and megafires in the western US. Our findings highlight the importance of assessing the structural integrity of models in addition to their accuracy. They also underscore the critical need to address the rise in compound climate extremes linked to large wildfires.

PAM material that instantly gives ordinary fabrics excellent flame retardant and thermal insulation properties for fire rescue

To effectively reduce the damage caused by flame burns or heat transfer to the human body during fire, we used PAM aqueous solution as the matrix, XG as the thickener, HPMC as the water-retaining agent to form the basic material system, and added different functional particles (APP, PTW, HCB) to prepare a fire-proof and heat-insulating PAM flame-retardant material for fire emergency rescue. Ordinary cotton fabrics were impregnated into PAM flame-retardant materials using a simple impregnation process. After the impregnation, the test was performed in a non-dropping state (simulating the thermal protection effect of PAM flame retardant materials directly acting on the outside of the human body at the fire scene). The results show that the PAM flame retardant material prepared by adding 4 wt% HCB has the best comprehensive performance. TPP test shows that spraying PAM flame retardant material on the outside of the fabric can instantly give the fabric a higher thermal protection performance. Under the total heat flux of 84 kW/m2, the thermal performance protection value of the fabric is 2641.8 kW·s/m2, and the second-degree burn time can reach 31.45 s. PAM flame retardant material does not damage the fabric. After soaping, the air permeability of the fabric decreases slightly, the moisture permeability and wettability are improved, and the breaking strength is almost unchanged. The CCT test showed that the thermal radiation flux was 50 KW/m2, the PHRR value of PAM flame retardant material was 10.64552 KW/m2, the THR was 6.9 MJ/m2, and the flame retardant performance was excellent. The PAM flame retardant material prepared in this project can be applied to the fire scene and directly sprayed on the outside of the clothing of rescuers and recipients, giving the fabric a better thermal protection effect. It can also be used to extinguish fires in the external environment. This material offers a novel solution for enhancing fire rescuers' and victims' safety protection levels.

Modification of the microclimate and fire danger by Berg winds in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal

ABSTRACT Wildfires have the potential to result in significant loss of life and property damage. Mountain wave flow events (Berg winds) are integrally linked to periods of enhanced fire danger. The basis for enhanced fire danger during periods of mountain winds has long been established, supported by evidence from a number of case studies. A fuzzy logic model, applied to hourly meteorological data from four different sites varying in elevation, allowed for an in-depth study of the effects of Berg winds on the microclimate and fire danger. Results indicate that night-time Berg wind events occur less frequently than daytime events, also having a significantly reduced influence on the microclimate. Daytime Berg wind events were shown to result in a significant change in the microclimate and fire danger across all sites. Night-time Berg wind events did not result in significant change to air temperature and relative humidity but when combined with significant changes to wind speed did result in significant increases in fire danger. The sensitivity of the Lowveld Fire Danger Index was also tested. The study emphasizes the need for boundary layer processes such as Berg winds to be taken into account when forecasting and monitoring fire danger.

Spatial modelling and estimation of mammals' mortalities by Pantanal 2020 megafires

Abstract Extreme wildfire events, such as the Pantanal 2020 megafires, are expected to become more common. Assessing the impacts of such extreme events on wildlife is imperative for conservation planning. Direct observation of carcasses can provide valuable information on how these impacts relate to spatial heterogeneity. Here, we use double‐observer carcass surveys to assess the numbers and spatial patterns of direct mortalities of medium‐ to large‐sized mammals resulting from the Pantanal 2020 megafires in a large reserve (1080 km2) in the northern Pantanal wetland. Accounting for imperfect detection, we model the spatial variation in mortality occurrence and abundance, testing the effects of habitat‐related variables and wildfire severity using multi‐species N‐mixture models. We found that 26 out of 27 species of medium and large‐sized mammals died from the fires with a mean estimate of around 49 thousand individuals. The most affected species included capuchin monkeys, agoutis, peccaries, tapirs, brocket deer, tamanduas, coatis and capybaras. Direct mortality of mammals by wildfires was affected by landscape factors related to species habitats, species traits (probably related to escape or refuge strategies), and the intensity of the wildfires. Mortalities presented a general positive relationship with non‐flooded forests (a fire‐sensitive habitat in Pantanal) and with the severity of wildfires. Artificial water bodies, a common landscape structure in Pantanal, had 7.5 times more deaths than other areas. Synthesis and applications: With the approach used, we were able to: (i) identify mortality hotspots associated with landscape features; (ii) simultaneously identify the most affected species and assess the average relationships for all the assemblage of medium‐ and large‐sized mammals. We discuss conservation and management actions in two contexts: species prioritization for rescuing and monitoring; and territory prioritization for fire prevention and fighting.

Vegetation phenology as a key driver for fire occurrence in the UK and comparable humid temperate regions

Background Fire activity in the UK and comparable regions of northwest Europe is generally out of phase with peak fire weather conditions. Aims Here, we assess the potential effect of phenology on fire occurrence patterns for the UK. Methods We examined fire occurrence and vegetation phenology in the UK for 2012–2023, mapped onto the main fire-affected vegetation cover types within distinct precipitation regions, allowing the fire occurrence for fuels in different phenological phases to be explored across distinct ‘fuel’ types and regions. Key results The UK’s fire regime is characterised by burning in semi-natural grasslands and evergreen dwarf shrub ecosystems in early spring when vegetation is still dormant. During the high-greenness phase in late spring and summer, fire activity is reduced by a factor of 5–6 despite typically elevated fire weather conditions within that period. Conclusions and implications Semi-natural vegetation in the UK is very resistant to burning during the high-greenness phase. However, this ‘fire barrier’ is diminished during severe drought episodes, which are predicted to become more extreme in the coming decades. Incorporating phenology information into models therefore has great potential for improving future fire danger and behaviour predictions in the UK and comparable humid temperate regions.